Writing Inspiration

Writing Prompts: Heavenly Virtues

On Tuesday, we explored the Seven Deadly Sins. As is the nature of the universe, these deadly sins have counterparts designed to save you from a life of debauchery however fun it might be. These seven virtues were culled from a poem by Aurelius Clemens Prudentius called the Psychomachia. It was popular in the middle ages and encouraged the belief that the practice of these seven virtues would protect one against “Temptation”.

But who says being virtuous has to be boring? Like the seven deadly sins, think of how the Seven Heavenly Virtues can be used to define and challenge your characters. Here are a few writing prompts to help get you started:

1. Write a story about someone dead broke being “Charitable” and giving someone filthy rich their last quarter.

2. Write a story about how someone who worked “Diligently” at their job recovers from being passed over for an earned raise and promotion.

3. Write a story about someone who has to be cruel in order to be “Kind“.

4. Write a story about a person’s who’s act of “Humility” incites an act of violence.

5. Write a story about a nymphomaniac struggle with “Chastity“.

The Seven Heavenly Virtues

1. Chastity (opposes Lust)

2. Temperance (opposes Gluttony)

3. Charity (opposes Greed)

4. Diligence (opposes Sloth)

5. Patience (opposes Wrath)

6. Kindness (opposes Envy)

7. Humility (opposes Pride)